Beloved Fla. police captain loses fight against cancer

Boyd Graham, 47, was diagnosed with Stage 4 liver cancer in March and retired April 7 because of his illness

By Jerriann Sullivan
Orlando Sentinel

ST. CLOUD, Fla. — St. Cloud Capt. Boyd Graham, a military veteran and longtime law-enforcement officer, lost his battle against liver cancer Friday morning.

Graham, 47, was diagnosed with Stage 4 liver cancer in March and retired April 7 because of his illness.

(Photo courtesy St. Cloud Police)

"Today, our community lost a hero. We extend our hearts and love to his family at this difficult time and thank all those in the community that have been supportive of Capt. Boyd Graham and his family during the past few months of his battle," police Chief Pete Gauntlett said in a statement.

His wife, Claire Graham, had to leave her job temporarily as a teacher at St. Cloud High School to care for her husband.

The U.S. Army and Marine Corps veteran was nicknamed Sgt. Robo because of his disciplined persona during his 16 years at the Police Department.

Graham is also survived by two sons, Luke and Archer, and a daughter, Marilyn.

A public viewing is planned from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Cornerstone Family Church at 2925 Canoe Creek Road, St. Cloud.

The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Thursday at Cornerstone Family Church. The service will be open to the public.

"The St. Cloud Police Department along with several local law-enforcement agencies, members of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Army will take part in honoring Captain Boyd Graham as the entire law-enforcement community mourns the loss of one of their own," the city said in a statement late Friday.

In lieu of flowers, the family asked for donations to Special Olympics Florida, 1915 Don Wickham Drive, Clermont, FL 34711.

About 1,000 Central Florida law-enforcement officers, city officials and residents gathered at Peghorn Park Nature Trail and Wildlife Habitat in St. Cloud in June for a fundraiser for Graham and his family.

Graham sat in the shade and greeted old friends and met new ones. "If they're out here supporting me and my family," he said, "I'll shake anyone's hand."